[Japanese Music] Masterpieces of 2000s Pop: A Collection of Hit 00’s J-POP Songs
As we find ourselves in the mid-2020s, it’s surprising to think the 2000s were already more than 20 years ago.
It’s fascinating that music and culture from that era are being rediscovered and celebrated—particularly through the so-called “Y2K” boom—led by younger generations who were born around that time.
In this article, we’re focusing on Japanese hit songs from the 2000s, gathering beloved tracks that colored the era under the broad theme of pop music.
Especially in the early 2000s, the momentum from the ’90s carried over, giving rise to massive nationwide hits.
We hope not only younger listeners but also those now in their 30s, who likely spent their youth in the 2000s, will enjoy reminiscing with these nostalgic classics!
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- 2000s: A Collection of Hit Karaoke Classics
- Big Hits, Including New Standard Favorites! Best Hits of Popular J-POP Songs
- Commercial songs from the 2000s. A roundup of nostalgic hits from the 00s.
- Heisei-era masterpieces. Hit songs that represent the Heisei period.
- Ballad songs that were hits in the 2000s
- 2000s Japanese Hits | Unforgettable Once You Hear Them! Exquisite Masterpieces
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
- An energizing song that was a hit in the 2000s—a classic that gives you strength.
- Summer Songs That Hit in the 2000s | A Look Back at Nostalgic Summer Tunes!
- Songs from the Heisei retro era that will get any generation excited! Timeless tracks you’ll want to listen to now.
- Japanese Music of the 2000s: Revival Included! A J-POP Hit Song Special
[J-POP] Classic 2000s pop songs. A collection of 00s J-POP hits (21–30)
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE
This is a moving ballad by EXILE, beloved as a classic graduation song.
Released in February 2007 as their 23rd single, the track became a milestone as the 1,000th song to reach No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
It captures the delicate emotions woven from hope and a touch of loneliness that everyone feels during the season of departure.
Parting with dear friends is painful, yet it inspires gratitude for the time spent together and the courage to step into the future.
The beautiful harmonies of ATSUSHI and TAKAHIRO gently envelop those warm feelings.
It was also used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Music Fighter” and as the motif for the drama “Sotsu Uta.” It’s a song that quietly stays close to the hearts of those setting out on a new path.
In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez
Released in 2006 as Aqua Timez’s second single overall.
It was selected as the theme song for the animated film “Brave Story,” and with this song they made their first appearance at that year’s Kohaku Uta Gassen (the Red and White Song Battle).
In 2011, it was also used as a special commercial song for Sapporo Beer’s New Year Sports Special: the Hakone Ekiden.
Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze
This is one of Shonan no Kaze’s signature love songs, a heartfelt tale of a clumsy man’s unwavering devotion that really hits home.
Many people may have discovered them through this track.
From the everyday happiness of being moved by a lover’s home-cooked meal, to the small misunderstandings that create distance, and finally to the raw realization of one’s own immaturity and the renewed appreciation of the person who matters—this straightforward story resonates deeply.
Released in March 2006 as their fifth single, it achieved an astonishing 25 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Oricon karaoke chart.
Blending reggae’s fiery energy with a catchy pop melody, the song is perfect both as a dedication to someone special at a wedding and for belting out with friends at karaoke.
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo
It is one of Yo Hitoto’s signature songs, released in 2004 as her fifth single.
A million-selling classic, it was used as the theme song for the Toho-distributed film “Hanamizuki.” The lyrics are said to have been written in about a week, inspired by an email from a friend who was in New York at the time of the September 11 attacks.
Osaka LoverDREAMS COME TRUE
A track that directly conveys the excitement of heading to Osaka to see a long-distance lover.
Released in March 2007 as DREAMS COME TRUE’s 38th single, it was well known as the theme song for a Universal Studios Japan attraction.
The song expresses the complex feelings of the frustration of not being able to meet and the anticipation of reunion, set to a danceable four-on-the-floor beat.
The slightly grown-up-sounding Osaka dialect phrases highlight the protagonist’s endearing charm and are irresistibly cute.
The song is also included on the album AND I LOVE YOU.
It’s a perfect track to heighten those pre-meeting butterflies when you’re about to see someone you love.
Lovin’ LifeFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
The fourth single by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, a music unit that fuses hip-hop and pop.
Released in January 2007, the song became a long-running hit, breaking into the Top 10 in its sixth week and solidifying the group’s popularity.
The lyrics, which portray the small joys hidden in everyday life and the preciousness of time spent with loved ones, warmly fill listeners’ hearts.
Its catchy melody and smooth rap weave a positive atmosphere that feels like a true anthem for life.
The track is also included on the album “Funky Monkey Babys 2” and was used as Ryota Wakiya’s theme song for the Yomiuri Giants in 2007.
It’s a number that makes you cherish the simplicity of everyday life.
Song of DepartureMr.Children
As a beloved national rock band, Mr.Children deliver a heartfelt medium-tempo ballad that continues to resonate with many listeners.
It’s not only about the loneliness that comes with parting, but also a warm anthem of encouragement that sings about a sure step toward the future that begins from there.
You can’t help but be moved by the image of someone holding dear memories close and striving to overcome their anxiety.
Kazutoshi Sakurai’s gentle vocals carry that message in a way that softly nestles into the listener’s heart.
Released as a single in October 2007, the song was featured as the theme for the much-talked-about film Sky of Love (Koizora) and used in an NTT East Japan commercial.
It’s a track that will surely give you a gentle push at life’s crossroads, such as graduation or a new beginning.